tpo 41

The reading and the lecture argue the benefits of implementing a stricter regulation for the handling and storing of coal ash. While the reading looks at the topic from one perspective, the lecture challenges the arguments illustrated in the reading passage.

first, the lecture mentions that the current rules are not sufficient. Under the current regulations, companies are required to t use liner before coal ash disposal in a new pond or new landfill they build. However, this is not the same in the case of old pond or old landfill building. As a result, coal ash leaked to ground water and pollute the surrounding environment. Thus, this in contrast with what the reading indicates, applying stricter regulation is required.

Second, contrary to the belief in the reading that the new regulation will augment consumer concern and discourage them from buying recycling coal ash products, the lecture explains that Mercury was a well known toxic product to the customers. However, it was successfully recycled and sold to the consumers without raising their concerns. In contrast with the reading, consumers are probably reacting in the same way when they deal with coal ash recycle products.

finally, the author mentions that the new rules will alleviate the cost. In contrast, the lecture says that even though the total coast of the recycling and handling process will increase significantly, the total bill per household will increase only by one percent. Therefore, the increase in household will not be that significant compared with the benefits they get from implementing more effective regulations.